The Memphis Grizzlies outlasted the Phoenix Suns 119-112 on Tuesday night, improving to 36-17 on the season, while the Suns dropped to 26-27.
However, the main storyline from the game was the historic milestone reached by 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant, who became just the eighth player in NBA history to score 30,000 career points. Entering the night just 30 points away, Durant finished with 34.
After the game, Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant had a clear message for Durant when interviewed by Taylor Rooks from NBA on TNT.
“He’s one of the greats,” Morant said. “So I honored him with the ball. He said he doesn’t care too much about it, but not everyone gets to 30,000 in this league, so hats off to him. I hope he keeps going. We want to see him out here.”
“He’s one of the greats” 🤝@JaMorant talks KD hitting 30K career points with @TaylorRooks after a hard-earned Memphis win 🎤 pic.twitter.com/u9fHUSMHPI
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) February 12, 2025
At the age of 36, Durant remains one of the most prolific offensive talents to ever play the game. On his way to his 15th All-Star appearance, Durant has already won two NBA championships, four scoring titles, and has been named an 11-time All-NBA player.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) looks on against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center.
© Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Morant continues to try and lead the Grizzlies to prominence, despite not having the best statistical season of his young career so far and falling short of an All-Star bid.
However, he has still led the Grizzlies to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with one game left before the break.
He finished with 26 points, seven rebounds, six assists and is currently averaging 20.5 points, 7.5 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game this season.